What You Should Know About Peptic Ulcer Diet
Peptic ulcer is that which affects the duodenum and the stomach. When this occurs it means that the stomach and (or) the duodenum have open wounds (ulcers) and these react when food is ingested. Peptic ulcer is characterized by symptoms such as severe burning in the stomach region, pain and even vomiting in extreme cases. Antacids and cold milk usually provide fast relief.
The Importance Of The Peptic Ulcer Diet
Since the stomach and duodenum are directly affected the ingested food would interfere with its healing. Therefore, if you want a fast cure, you would need to ensure that you consume only those foods which promote the healing process. This is why the peptic ulcer diet is so important.
The peptic ulcer diet is not something very structured like the diabetes diet for example. It is rather a list of dos and don'ts which ensure that the ulcer is not further aggravated so the medical treatment can work optimally. The ground rule of this diet is to allow the patient to eat in sufficient quantity while at the same time ensuring that the food impacts the stomach and duodenum in the least.
The Dos Of The Peptic Ulcer Diet
Do eat slowly, chewing each morsel thoroughly as this would relieve the pressure on the stomach for its digestion.
Do avoid stress of any type both at home and at the office. Stress causes gas and acidity which can further aggravate the ulcer.
Do take note (write it down if you need to) about the foods that cause you pain and eliminate them from your diet until you are cured.
Do be careful about the medication that has been prescribed for you. Follow the doctor's instructions to the letter.
Do quit smoking at the earliest. Smoking is known to aggravate this condition and heavily interferes with the healing process.
The Don'ts of the Peptic Ulcer Diet
Don't have your meals just before the bed time. Ensure there is at least two hours gap between dinner and your sleeping time.
Don't take any over-the-counter medication - especially painkillers such as aspirin - without consulting your doctor. Many medicines aggravate the peptic ulcers.
Don't take any types of spices or deep fried foods. Avoid chilies, pepper, all citrus fruits, aerated drinks, chocolate, oil in general and alcohol.
Don't skip meals at any time. Have all meals at regular (fixed) time as delays would cause acidity.
Your doctor would be able to add more to the list of do's and don'ts and you should be careful that you abide to the rules set if you want to get rid of this ailment in the shortest possible time.
